Jill Bartlett is the visionary and creative force behind Scouterwear and Thank Dog We Made It. Following her passion, Jill has found a way to combine her love for teaching others while also creating with her hands.
Jill started out as a graphic designer and animator then launched an eLearning company, which she co-owned for over 15 years. As the corporate chaos increased, Jill started craving a creative outlet to unwind from all the stress. Knitting, sewing, and carpentry were her salvation.
Jill is now a dog wear designer with a line of dog wear suited to fit dogs of all sizes and she teaches others how to make their own dog wear—whether sewn using a variety of fabrics or knitted.
Jill thrives on pushing boundaries and challenging norms, a sentiment that now echoes in every stitch of the original dog wear she designs. Jill also finds joy in teaching others to make their own dog wear. In this conversation, Jill shares her creative journey, her transition from a corporate career to making dog wear, and her passion for teaching others how to make their own dog wear. Jill shares her experiences with imposter syndrome, the importance of goal planning, and the joy she finds in creativity. She also offers advice for those starting out and emphasizes the importance of taking time for oneself.
(times are estimates)
00:00
Introduction and Background
01:23
Jill’s Creative Journey
03:12
Discovering a Passion for Teaching
04:06
Starting an E-Learning Company
05:05
Transitioning to Making Dog Wear
08:19
Embracing Technology and Overcoming Fear
11:04
The Rise of Makers and the Importance of Handmade
12:46
Creating Custom Fit Dog Wear
15:10
Teaching Others to Make Dog Wear
17:29
Marrying Passion for Making and Teaching
19:25
Advice for Those Starting Out
21:39
The Importance of Goal Planning
23:58
Dealing with Imposter Syndrome
25:22
Balancing Work and Pursuing a Passion
28:10
Taking Time for Yourself
29:23
Believing in Yourself and Overcoming Fear
31:38
Transitioning from One Business to Another
32:08
Dealing with Imposter Syndrome
33:34
Finding Joy in Creativity
35:32
Creating New Designs and Overcoming Fear
39:24
Teaching and Empowering Others
40:43
Closing Remarks